Boston Rings in the 2016

As the calendar turns to 2016, the city of Boston was packed with revelers enjoying the First Night celebrations.

First Night Boston: View From the Street

The number of people out on the streets, however, meant heightened security - including police, in uniform and undercover, explosive sniffing dogs, tactical teams and other measures.

"It's a delicate balance," Boston Police Commissioner William Evans said. "I don't want people to see it and be intimidated. We have plenty of resources, a lot of undercovers working the crowds, and things are good."

Police say a 911 call to NYPD Monday referencing an anonymous threat to Boston was unsubstantiated.

Boston prepares for its big First Night celebration

Mayor Marty Walsh says he was pleased to see all the crowds and families who came out.

Attendees enjoyed the music, being played everywhere from Copley Square to the Boston Common.

"We like to walk the streets," said Kristen Dobritz of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. "We like to be right in the center of everything."

This year, all the fun is free - no button required. And the party's been condensed, keeping the festivities in the center of the city.

Families were treated to an early ice skating show on Frog Pond, followed by a parade.

Other cities and towns around New England were also taking part in First Night celebrations. Listed below are a few of them: 

Downtown Countdown Bangor

First Night Hartford

First Night Northampton

New Year's Portland

First Night Portsmouth

First Night Worcester

Have a wonderful holiday celebration, and please stay safe!

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